Category: Religious Architecture > Church
District: Leiria > Ansião > Santiago da Guarda > Casal do Louco
Situated in the village of Santiago da Guarda, in the municipality of Ansião, this church is located in the area of Casal do Louco. The building stands out for its isolated and elevated position, built on a platform delimited by a white-painted masonry wall. To access the main facade, visitors find a staircase, which contributes to its imposing presence in the parish's urban landscape. At the rear of the church, the local cemetery is located, further integrating it into the daily life and history of the community.
The Mother Church of Santiago da Guarda, dedicated to Saint James, represents the most recent religious construction in the municipality of Ansião. Its construction dates back to the 1970s, on a site of profound historical continuity. It is important to note that this contemporary church was built precisely on the same site where its predecessor stood, an original mother church dating back to the 16th century. The decision to demolish the old structure and build a new one in the same location, with an alteration to the main entrance, reflects a phase of renovation and adaptation to modern times.
The architecture of the Mother Church of Santiago da Guarda is markedly contemporary, distinguished by its modernity and functionality. Compared to its predecessor, this church is visibly more spacious, offering an inviting environment. The interior of the single nave is bathed in a unique light, coming from its stained-glass windows. These elements, witnesses of a new era in religious construction, not only contribute to the aesthetics of the space but also create a distinct atmosphere for reflection for visitors.
Despite its architectural modernity, the interior of the Mother Church of Santiago da Guarda holds a valuable collection of sculptures, enriching its cultural heritage. Several 16th-century stone pieces stand out, which were transferred from the old Parish Church of Orada, in the place of Granja. Among these, the sculptures of the church's patron saint, Saint James, and Our Lady of Grace, deserve special attention. In addition to these, the church houses other significant works of sacred art, such as representations of Saint Anthony of Lisbon, Saint Lucy, Christ Carrying the Cross, and Resurrected Christ, which invite a more leisurely appreciation of its artistic collection.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 39.9470389,-8.4807302
Coordinates DMS: 39°56'49.3"N 08°28'50.6"W
Weather Santiago da Guarda
On-duty Pharmacy Santiago da Guarda
